KARACHI, Apr 13 (APP):The High Commissioner of Bangladesh, Md. Iqbal Hussain Khan, stated that relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan are witnessing positive momentum, as reflected by the exchange of high-level delegations from both sides and expression of a strong commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties. The current phase represents a “golden opportunity” to expand bilateral cooperation by enhancing trade, connectivity and economic cooperation, he remarked during his visit to the …
Bangladesh HC calls for enhanced trade, economic cooperation with Pakistan
KARACHI, Apr 13 (APP):The High Commissioner of Bangladesh, Md. Iqbal Hussain Khan, stated that relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan are witnessing positive momentum, as reflected by the exchange of high-level delegations from both sides and expression of a strong commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties.
The current phase represents a “golden opportunity” to expand bilateral cooperation by enhancing trade, connectivity and economic cooperation, he remarked during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), said a statement issued here on Monday.
“At present, I do not see any major barriers that cannot be overcome”, he added, noting that mutual understanding and coordinated efforts could effectively address certain logistical issues.
Highlighting growing people-to-people and cultural linkages, the High Commissioner referred to increasing exchange of artists and participation of Bangladeshi players in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
He also pointed out that over 100 Bangladeshi students are enrolled in Pakistani institutions, particularly in medical, dental, and technical fields while a growing number of Bangladeshi patients are seeking medical treatment in Pakistan, including liver and kidney transplants as well as cancer care.
Md. Iqbal Hussain expressed keen interest in exploring Pakistan’s mining potential, particularly coal reserves in Tharparkar, and noted Bangladesh’s demand for limestone, suggesting that both countries explore viable trade opportunities in minerals.
Chairman BMG Zubair Motiwala, in his remarks, emphasized that bilateral trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh remains below US$1 billion, which is far below its true potential.
He urged on enhancing trade facilitation, connectivity, technical collaboration and exchange of expertise to create a mutually beneficial, win-win partnership.
Motiwala also emphasized the scope for collaboration and joint ventures in the garments, energy, mines and minerals, healthcare, education, and the blue economy. He noted the vast potential in Pakistan’s mineral reserves across Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, inviting Bangladeshi investors to explore opportunities in this sector.
He welcomed the commencement of direct maritime shipments to Bangladesh, describing it as a major step forward in improving trade logistics, stressing the urgent need for direct air connectivity between Karachi and Dhaka.
Earlier, President KCCI Muhammad Rehan Hanif, in his welcome address, reiterated the KCCI’s firm belief in economic diplomacy as a key driver of bilateral relations and stated that Pakistan-Bangladesh relations are undergoing a significant transformation toward a forward-looking partnership driven by trade, connectivity and shared economic opportunities.
The meeting was attended by Deputy High Commissioner of Bangladesh Muhammad Sakib Sadakat; Vice Chairman BMG Tariq Yousuf; Senior Vice President KCCI Muhammad Raza and other senior leaders and members of the KCCI Executive Committee.
